Zimbabwe’s abundant sunlight offers a significant opportunity to harness solar energy for various applications, including water heating. Solar water heaters, commonly known as solar geysers, are becoming increasingly popular in the country due to their environmental and economic benefits.

Government Initiatives and Targets

In an effort to promote renewable energy, the Zimbabwean government has set ambitious targets for the adoption of solar water heaters. The nation aims to install at least 250,000 solar water heaters in both existing and new buildings by 2030. To support this goal, a law enacted in 2019 mandates that new buildings must be equipped with solar water heaters before they can be connected to the national power grid. Non-compliance can result in fines and imprisonment of up to one year. (World Economic Forum)

Benefits of Solar Water Heaters

• Energy Efficiency: Solar geysers utilize sunlight to heat water, reducing reliance on electricity and alleviating pressure on the national grid.
• Cost Savings: By decreasing electricity consumption, households and businesses can lower their energy bills over time.
• Environmental Impact: Adopting solar water heaters contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, supporting global climate change mitigation efforts.

Available Solar Water Heater Options in Zimbabwe

A variety of solar geysers are available in the Zimbabwean market, catering to different needs and budgets. Below is a table summarizing some options:

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change.

Installation and Maintenance Services

Several companies in Zimbabwe offer installation and maintenance services for solar water heaters:

• Soratek Engineering: Provides durable and reliable solar water heating solutions for both domestic and business customers, offering a 5-year warranty on their products.
• Lanroy Energy Solutions: Specializes in solar geyser installations with a team of professional and experienced installers, serving Harare and the broader Zimbabwean market.
• Sunshine Solar: Offers installation, maintenance, and repair services for various types of solar geysers, with contact available via WhatsApp or call.

The adoption of water heaters in Zimbabwe presents a sustainable solution to the country’s energy challenges. With government mandates and a variety of available options, both residential and commercial entities can benefit from reduced energy costs and contribute to environmental conservation.

By embracing solar water heating technology, Zimbabwe is taking significant steps towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future, aligning with global trends in renewable energy adoption.